The name of Luxembourg’s national holiday is surprising to the foreign ear, to say the least. While every country has its own national holiday, with its own set of customs and celebrations, it’s clear that in Luxembourg, nothing is ever quite the same as it is elsewhere. Let’s discover the famous “Groussherzogsgebuertsdag“.
The story behind Luxembourg’s national holiday
While it’s generally accepted that national holidays reflect a country’s history, encouraging people to remember a significant event or turning point in history, the situation is a little different in Luxembourg.
Since the late 18th century, it has been customary to celebrate the birthday of one’s sovereign. The date of the national holiday changed according to the reign. Finally, in 1961, it was decided to fix the date on June 23, so that this festive event could take place during the summer. Clever Luxembourgers!
National holiday program in Luxembourg
The day before
In Luxembourg, revelers don’t let themselves be put off, and start the festivities the evening before, on June 22, with the country’s biggest popular festival: concerts and parties all over the city and the country. Some bars and restaurants are transformed into temporary concert stages for the night. And let’s not forget the highlight of the evening: the fireworks! It’s fired from the famous Adolphe Bridge and captivates with its breathtaking play of light. Every year, the magic continues. Despite the temptation of all these attractions, you need to make sure you’re in shape for the big day… or, on the contrary, let yourself be tempted by the national euphoria and take advantage of the public holiday to get some rest.
D-Day
On June 23 at 10:00 a.m., the government invites the Grand Duke, the President of the Chamber of Deputies and the Prime Minister to hold an official ceremony at the Philharmonie de Luxembourg, in the presence of the country’s authorities and diplomatic representatives of countries accredited to Luxembourg. During this event, it is also customary to award a decoration to deserving Luxembourgers.
Each year, a different composer has the honor of creating a closing musical work to be performed by the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra.
This ceremony is followed by the traditional 21 cannon shots in honor of the Grand Duke, and then the taking up of arms. This is also the time of the famous military parade, when troops march and planes fly low to the delight of the crowds lining the boulevard. The atmosphere is generally great.
The official program concludes with the traditional Te Deum , a Christian hymn sung in the late afternoon at Luxembourg’s Notre-Dame Cathedral in the presence of the Grand Ducal family.
In addition to the official ceremonies, the young public is also treated to the traditional ” Spillfest “. This games festival, held on the ” kinnekswiss “, a large green space in the middle of the municipal park in Luxembourg City, features a wide range of activities, including unusual and instructive games proposed by national and international associations and artists.
In a few days’ time, you’ll be able to take part in and discover these famous festivities in Luxembourg. It’s a great event that reveals the unity of the country. It’s not just a commemorative ceremony, but a grand celebration where citizens and tourists mingle to enjoy this summer moment.